Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No. 1.

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.

I was often invited to colleges and universities (1) ______ lectures. Once, I went to a university to deliver a lecture. (2) ______ it was over, the students gathered to ask (3) ______ questions. Though it was getting late (4) ______ my next programme, since I love talking to (5) ______, I remained there answering their questions.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. to deliver.

Context: The blank requires an infinitive form of the verb to express the purpose of the invitation — that is, the speaker is invited for the purpose of delivering lectures.

Meaning of the options:
Deliver: base form of the verb, not suitable after “invited to.”
To deliver: infinitive form, correct after “invited to” to express purpose.
Delivering: present participle, incorrect here.
Delivered: past tense or past participle, incorrect here.

Correct word: To deliver

Reason: After the verb “invited,” the correct structure is “invited to + infinitive verb.” So, “to deliver” fits the sentence correctly.

Final sentence: I was often invited to colleges and universities to deliver lectures.

Hence, the chosen option will be correct.

SSC Selection Post 2022 PYQ — Question 21